A SECOND Steber International security vessel is now patrolling Port Phillip Bay as part of the Port of Melbourne Corporation's (PoMC) 'Steer Clear' safety campaign.

In launching the MV Lonsdale, Victorian minister for ports, David Hodgett said that with around 8000 commercial ship movements in the bay every year, the Lonsdale will play an important role in reminding boat operators on the bay to 'Steer Clear' of the shipping channels.

With a top speed of around 31.5 knots, the Lonsdale is a sister vessel to the MV Tim Muir, which was also built at Steber's Taree factory complex in 2010.

The vessel has taken 5000 man hours to complete and is fitted out with the latest navigation and computer support to assist the crew carry out their multi-functional roles.

In addition to its incident response capability, the Lonsdale has also been fitted with sophisticated hydrographic survey equipment to determine seabed depths using a multi-beam echo sounder.

The vessel also uses the advanced military technology for its navigation and guidance systems.

The Lonsdale was named in recognition of Captain William Lonsdale, one of Victoria's early administrators who was closely associated with good governance and the law in the establishment of the young colony.

The Steber 38 is a popular design with police, marine rescue, fisheries and charter operators and is also attracting interest from overseas.

Steber International general manager, Alan Steber said: "With the recent drop in the Australian dollar, we are maintaining an export strategy".